Dietary changes and food habits: social and clinical determinants in a cohort of women diagnosed with breast cancer in Barcelona (DAMA cohort)

Abstract

Objective The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of social determinants on changes in dietary habits before and after diagnosis of breast cancer in women (Barcelona, 2003–2013).

Methods We performed a cohort study with 2,235 women diagnosed with breast cancer. The information was obtained from an ad hoc questionnaire based on recommendations from the Spanish Society of Community Nutrition. We conducted a descriptive bivariate analysis and fit logistic regression models. The dependent variable was the change in dietary habits (food groups) and the independent variables were a selection of social and clinical variables (age, social class, cohabitation, years since diagnosis, history of replaces, and treatment with chemotherapy).

Results While 5.8% of women followed a healthy diet (consumption of vegetables, fruits, farinaceous, lean meat, and seafood) before diagnosis, 9.5% did so after diagnosis. We observed statistically significant changes in consumption of all food groups (p < 0.001) after diagnosis. The greatest change in consumption patterns was observed in women aged < 50 years and those from non-manual classes (high classes) [e.g., legume consumption: OR<50 years/>65 years = 2.9 (95% CI 1.78–4.81); ORnon-manual/manual = 2.5 (95% CI 1.38–4.36)]. The occurrence of relapses and chemotherapy was associated with greater changes in dietary habits.

Conclusion Women with breast cancer change their eating habits after diagnosis, and these changes are conditioned by social and clinical determinants.